Barcelona in pole position to sign exiled Man United winger as AC Milan nearly give up | OneFootball

Manchester United outcast Marcus Rashford has emerged as one of the key names in Barcelona’s January transfer market plans.

The Blaugrana have already established contact with the 27-year-old’s representatives, signalling their interest in case Manchester United opened the door to a financially favourable loan.

As reported yesterday, Rashford has shown a clear preference for this possibility, even though he has an enticing offer from AC Milan.

AC Milan have almost given up

In fact, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t SPORT), the Rossoneri have nearly given up on signing Rashford, acknowledging his desire to play for Barcelona.

Milan had been awaiting the outcome of recent discussions between Rashford’s brother and agent and Manchester United to determine whether they were chosen by the English club and the player to proceed with a loan.

However, no definitive response has been forthcoming. In Italy, it is now widely believed that Rashford is holding out for Barça and is willing to wait until the transfer window closes, despite the Red Devils’ urgency to facilitate his departure.

Rashford wants Barcelona. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Barcelona lead the race

This essentially puts Barcelona in pole position for the England forward’s signing.

The Blaugrana are fully informed of the situation given that Rashford is their top priority for the January market. Hansi Flick sees him as a transformative player capable of filling gaps on the left flank of the attack.

Negotiations with Rashford’s representatives have already outlined what Barcelona can afford to pay for his salary.

For the deal to work, either Manchester United would need to subsidise a portion of his wages or the player would have to accept a pay cut.

The final step from Barça has been delayed as they await salary space to register the player. Although the club is now under the 1:1 rule, they need to generate revenue from a player sale to make room for the Englishman.

The Catalans have the upper hand, as their sporting project aligns most closely with Rashford’s ambitions. Furthermore, Manchester United have ruled out loaning him out to a Premier League club, giving the Blaugrana a clear run.